Moses was born on the 7th of Adar of the year 2368 from creation (1393 BCE); accordingly, Adar 14 was the 8th day of his life and the day on which he was circumcised in accordance with the Divine command to Abraham.

The festival of Purim celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people from Haman's plot "to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews, young and old, infants and women, in a single day."

The events of Purim extended over a period of several years, culminating in the victory celebrations of Adar 14-15 of 356 BCE. Below is a timeline of the major events. For the detailed story, see the Book of Esther and The Story of Purim

Event

Date

Achashveirosh ascends the throne of Persia

369 BCE

Achashveirosh's 180-day feast; Queen Vashti executed

366 BCE

Esther becomes queen

Tevet, 362 BCE

Haman casts lots to choose date for Jews' annihilation

Nissan, 357 BCE

Royal decree ordering killing of all Jews

Nissan 13, 357 BCE

Mordechai calls on Jews to repent; 3-day fast ordered by Esther

Nissan 14-16, 357 BCE

Esther goes to Achashveirosh; hosts 1st wine party with Achashveirosh and Haman

Nissan 16, 357 BCE

Esther's 2nd wine party; Haman's downfall and hanging

Nissan 17, 357 BCE

Second decree issued by Achashveirosh, empowering the Jews to defend themselves

Sivan 23, 357 BCE

Battles fought throughout the empire against those seeking to kill the Jews; Haman's ten sons killed

Adar 13, 356 BCE

Purim celebrations everywhere, except Shushan where 2nd day of battles are fought

Adar 14, 356 BCE

Purim celebration in Shushan

Adar 15, 356 BCE

Megillah written by Esther and Mordechai; Festival of Purim instituted for all generations